When it comes to a successful remodel, there are many steps to get from A to Z. It is important to be aware of the process because while the destination is certainly the exciting place to be, you actually need to respect each point in the journey. Here is your ultimate guide to the steps in your luxury home remodel!

Step 1 – Figure Out Your Client Type

What type of client are you? Take some time in the beginning to decide how you tackle big projects. Figuring out what kind of client you are ensures you hire the right professionals and enjoy your process.

The “Do-It-Yourselfer”

Have you been through a remodel before? If not, are you cool with making a costly or time-consuming mistake? Do you love researching space planning, product types, and building codes? Do you have time to commit to your project as a second job? Then you may be able to finish your project with just you and a contractor – if permits are not needed. If you hit the criteria above and if the idea of having other cooks in your kitchen annoys you, then you may be a do-it-yourselfer! Make sure you hire a knowledgeable contractor and be upfront with them that you are doing your own design. Some contractors require professional drawing sets to complete a job, and some are not interested in this type of client as they will need to assist you more. There is a reason designers charge the fees they do, and you will start to appreciate this during your project. If you think this is for you, try and talk yourself out of it three times and if you still feel confident, go for it! You can always call me if things get to being a bit too much!

The “I know exactly what I want but need some help pulling it together”Client

Do you have exact pictures of rooms you like and know the exact products and finishes you want? Do you have time to shop but don’t know where to go and want a second opinion on your selections? Are you willing to run around to gather samples and bids? We can assist you to bring your vision to life by helping you make sure your dream room fits your space for layout and functionality codes. We also can educate you on the products you chose and where to find them and provide professional drawings and renderings. This can save you on design fees and still lead to an excellent result. Your time for your project will still be considerable, and this is not a recommended strategy for someone with a demanding job or lots of kiddos!

The “ I know what I like, but want someone else to find it” Client

You know what you want, you have a beautiful picture of your dream room, but you don’t have the time or interest in finding the finishes, making sure it fits your space, and want someone else to figure all that out and make it happen! A full-service process is a fit for you that will take your dream vision and turn it into reality.

The “I don’t know what I like, make me a dream room!” Client

No idea what you want or where to begin, but you want a space that you love, complements your home, and echoes your personal style? We will get to know you and your style and develop options for your space. Our process includes 3D renderings that will help you discover your design style and then can offer the full services to execute the design.

Once you have some idea of who you are, share this information with us during your initial consultation and we can propose your project accordingly!

Step 2 – Understand the Timeline

Allow Time for Design

Many clients reach out too late. Although a good result can still be achieved, the best designs are those where you have time to consider your options both design and budget wise. Consider your life, job, and other responsibilities. We need your time and attention in order to cover all the details and decisions that go into a remodel and make sure you are happy with the result. See my general design timelines here.

Understand Product Lead Times and Construction Timelines

You may want your kitchen done by the holidays, but if you are reaching out in October, understand most cabinets take eight weeks or more, and that time starts ticking after all designing and decisions are made. Construction takes time as well. Check out my Product and Construction timeline here for more guidance and plan accordingly. Nothing derails a project more than a party, baby coming, or move-in date deadline that is too short…

Step 3 – Know Your Budget

Most online budget guides are way below reality. A conversation with us can quickly help you understand realistic costs and help you consider what you can afford. Sharing this information with us is key to a successful design and project. If you have no idea what’s okay, we can educate you. Once you understand the market and we understand what you can afford, we can plan accordingly.

Step 4 – Hire the Right Help

You know what type of client you are and you have some idea of your budget. Now make sure you find a team that values and understands you and whose services and work style fit your needs. Your designer, contractor, and even your product vendors make up the team for a successful project. We can help you find a contractor or evaluate one you already know to make sure they are a fit for you service and budget-wise. From a full-service contractor with a full-time office staff and foreman to a guy in a truck can both result in a great project. The cost and process can differ substantially, and the right choice can be the difference between a great experience or a horrible one.

Step 5 – Expect the Unexpected

Construction is not a perfect science. Timelines can go awry. Things can look different to you in real life than they did on a drawing or a small sample. Expect to go over your budget and timeline. You will fall in love with that freestanding tub you didn’t put in your budget. That luxury range may have to be yours and you make the splurge. This happens more often than not, and it’s okay! I help people with these decisions every day. We can help manage your expectations, educate you, and help you navigate issues when they arise. We are adept at working with contractors and vendors and are there to be your sounding board during your project and your liaison with your contractor. We love doing that: it’s our passion! I often say: “Remodeling is like having a baby. It can be painful but once it’s done, you forget about the pain and start planning for your next one!”

Amber Golob Interiors harnesses timeless aesthetics, structure and beauty amid elegance as one of Chicago's premier luxury interior designers. An expert on kitchens and bathrooms, her work embodies modern trends, allowing your life to be rediscovered through intimate definitions of your style. Live in Chicago or the North Shore?Schedule a consultation with luxury interior designer, Amber Golob, by contacting her at Amber@AmberGolob.com or calling 773-960-0498.

How long will my project take? That answer varies wildly depending on the scope of your project and subject to your availability for meetings. Each project is unique but general guidelines are below:

Design time - 4-8 weeks+

The earlier the better! Many people call us just a few weeks or even after they wish their projects to begin.Although we can accommodate rush projects at times, the best results both design and budget wise come from careful planning and time to consider your options.

Product Lead times

Now that everything is decided we have to purchase all of the materials:

Cabinetry - 6-12 weeks

Tile - 1 week stocked, 4-6 weeks custom

Countertops - 7 business days from measure(measured when all base cabinets are in place)

Upholstery pieces - 8-12 weeks

Non-upholstered furniture - 6-12 weeks+

Retail furniture - 1-8 weeks

Custom rugs - 4 weeks - 6 months+

Custom drapery - 4-6 week+

Construction/Installation Timelines

The design is done, all items are purchased - but there is still time to bid and install!

Bidding:

Many people forget to plan this time into their overall timeline. The average time to bid out a drawing set is 2-3 weeks. Thereafter if items in the bid are too high, design changes often are considered and items re-bid. This takes additional time. We can include allowances for exact selections and get the contractors bidding while we finish our shopping to save time!

General Construction/Installation Timelines:

My motto is: whatever the contractor tells you add at least 2 weeks! In reality, things can go wrong, and unexpected repair needs can be found at demolition.For furniture projects, product may be back ordered or arrive damaged. We will help manage your expectations but keep in mind things tend to take longer than you expect. If you are ready for the possibility of delays you will feel less frustrated along the way!General guidelines only are below for some common projects:

Kitchen remodel - 8-12 weeks

Bathroom remodel - 4-6 weeks

Full room furnishing and finishes - 3-6 months depending on purchase lead times per above

In general, most projects take much longer and cost more than you see on TV. We are here to educate you early on so you can make the best decisions for your design and budget!

Amber Golob Interiors harnesses timeless aesthetics, structure and beauty amid elegance as one of Chicago's premier luxury interior designers. An expert on kitchens and bathrooms, her work embodies modern trends, allowing your life to be rediscovered through intimate definitions of your style.

Live in Chicago or the North Shore?Schedule a consultation with luxury interior designer, Amber Golob, by contacting her at Amber@AmberGolob.com or calling 773-960-0498.